Peace Within Our Borders: Unity In the Body of Christ

“Praise the Lord…O Zion. For He hath strengthened the bars of thy gates…He maketh peace in thy borders, and filleth thee with the finest of the wheat.” [Psalm 147: 12 - 14]

It is of utmost exigency that believers begin to conduct a reassessment of what exactly we are about. The Spirit of God is doing something amongst us, but we need to let Him; we have to allow Him to “gather together the exiles of Israel”, that is those who are Christians but do not live as such.

Before I go further, I need to establish certain premises of why I refer to us as Israel today. First, we know from Hebrews 12:22-23 that “ye are come unto mount Zion, and unto the city of the living God” so that we know that the church [as well as the physical Israel] was being referred to in Psalm 147. Also, we were rightly informed by the Apostle Paul that “they are not all Israel which are of Israel” in Romans 9:6-8 where he explains to us that the true spiritual Israel are the children of the promise. To further bolster his point, he mentioned in Galatians 3:29 that everyone who is in Christ is Abraham’s seed and an heir according to the promise.

The initial premise being established, we now know that Israel in Psalm 147 spoke concerning us as well. But, before I advance to the main point which is unity in the body of Christ, I’d like to dispel any assumptions that everyone reading this blog knows what the body of Christ is. According to Colossians 1:18, “he is the head of the body, the church: who is the first born from the dead; that in all things he may have the preeminence” letting us know that Jesus Christ is the head of the church which the bible refers to as His body.

Knowing this, why do we work against one another? Is there a good enough reason why slandering, malice, hatred, discontentment and other such things should be found in our midst? In my experience as a Christian, I have heard more Christians speak against and condemn ministers of God than unbelievers themselves. How can we function cohesively against the massive attacks from the enemy in these last days, if we are divided over our pre-conceived ideas of what Christianity and moderation should be? Is there a reason why we cannot share stories of challenges and victories in our soul winning exploits with one another?

Consider the Apostle Paul’s confrontation with Peter concerning the issue of eating and communing with Gentiles in Galatians 2:11-14 where Paul says concerning Peter, “I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed”. There was a simple disparity in revelations whereby Paul had a higher revelation that, Jew or Gentile, we are all one new creation in Christ Jesus, but Peter was yet to manifest a complete agreement with the idea mostly because of concern about criticism from Jewish Christians. In spite of that occurrence, the Bible does not record a fight or continued disagreement between them. In fact, the Bible records Peter giving Paul a form of admiration in 2 Peter 3:15 where he says “our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you”.

Another point to consider in evaluating our somewhat childish disagreements is that there are different families in Zion just as Israel had twelve different children all with different traits. Even though we are all children of the same heavenly Father, depending on the family (local church assembly) to which we belong, our characteristics and strengths may differ. Using Israel’s children as a case in point, they all developed into strong nations with different trades and responsibilities, some as kings [Judah], others as priests [Levi] and so on according to the gifting of God [Genesis 49]. Understanding this, we should not be offended or taken aback when other believers don’t meet our outward expectations, as long as they hold to the important foundational principle of Christ. Like Joseph said to his brothers “be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life”, we should walk in love, respecting one another, and giving ourselves a long rope.

Also, it has been my desire to write concerning an issue that has been of great concern to me. One would think that Christians would understand “touch not my anointed, and do my prophets no harm” [1 Chronicles 16:22] more than anyone else, but sadly, the reverse is the case. We find Christians condemning some and otherwise accepting some men of God. It is not in our place to do such a thing; in fact, it is a manifestation of spiritual childishness to demonstrate such audacity as to speak negatively about a man or woman of God, whether or not you think he or she has gone astray. In Romans 14:4, the Apostle Paul wrote “who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand”. Do you want to condemn a man of God that fell, only for God to restore him afterward? What then becomes of you who has touched the Lord’s anointed? Well, you may say that the anointing left him when he fell. But, think again!

After David had been anointed king and Saul had made attempts to kill David, Saul eventually died having already been rejected by God. After he died, a certain man brought news to David about the death of Saul and even lied that he killed Saul himself. Many of us, if in David’s shoes, would have burst out rejoicing considering that we have already been anointed and this ‘nuisance’ has been taken out of the way. But, David said something striking to the man that brought the news; he said “how wast thou not afraid to stretch forth thine hand to destroy the Lord’s anointed”? [2 Samuel 1:11-15, 19-20] Notice that David still referred to Saul as the Lord’s anointed. David ended up mourning for Saul and killing the young man that brought the supposed ‘good news’.

Afterward he forbade his men from letting the Gentiles know about it. Why must unbelievers hear about the fall of a minister of God from the mouth of believers? Why do we talk the most about ourselves in a negative light? This must change for us to be efficient as a body. For a while now, I have developed the mentality that my only business with another Christian’s spiritual life is to pray for them and give thanks to God for their successes. I believe fellow believers should adopt the same mentality, knowing that God deals with His children on an individual basis based on His expectations and no one else’s.

Jesus made it clear how we’ll know our brothers and sisters – by their fruits. He did not leave us in doubt or make it a confusing issue. John expounded on that by letting us know that “every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God” according to 1 John 4:2. Can we believe the word of God and relate with one another as siblings regardless of any other differences in understanding of the word of God?

Finally, in 1 Corinthians 12:12-31, which I strongly encourage you to read, Paul explains in-depth the importance of this subject of unity. There needs to be peace within the borders of Zion, and God can only establish it through us. We cannot keep cutting each other down instead of helping to heal each other’s wounds. Refuse to be the stumbling block in the way of the Masters’ work. When you are outside of your Christian family [local church assembly], function from the standpoint of members of one body. Let us love one another, work with one another, pray for one another, and strengthen one another till the day that the Master arrives, so that He will indeed find a “church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blemish” [Ephesians 5:27].

The church the Apostle refers to in Ephesians 5:27 is not your local assembly, but the body of Christ.

Be concerned about the body!

A Series of Fortunate Events…Part 2

Just before we continue on the episodes that bolstered my spiritual growth, I have a testimony to share, one that pertains to event 4. Last night in the absence of anyone else in sight I was approached by three men, one of which conveyed the impression that he possessed a weapon. One of the young men demanded that I surrendered my valuables. I looked into his eyes, somewhat irritated, and said “I have nothing for you”. He persisted with the other two guys lurking around.

That very second, I was prompted by the HolyGhost to speak in other tongues; as I began to do so, more boldness surged through me and I ceased to care about the potential danger. I spoke louder, and as I did, something fascinating happened. In a couple of seconds, the young man requesting my belongings began to back away in fear, while I continued to my destination. By the time I looked back, they were all gone. Praise God!

I shared this testimony to remind you that the word of God is practicable, and it works! You don’t have to prepare for such situations; just stay filled with HolySpirit, and He will make you as bold as a lion. Now, back to the last two events that solidified my faith, the final episodes in a series of fortunate events orchestrated by the HolySpirit:

Event 3 – “You’re Welcome”: On the Sunday after I was invited to Christ Embassy, for reasons unknown to me, my family showed no interest in going to church. And, immediately, the thought came: “how about that church you were invited to?” Upon arrival at Christ Embassy Satellite Church Ajah, I was welcomed by one of the ladies I met while trying to purchase a message the day before. With those words “you’re welcome”, I immediately felt at home. That day, I listened to my first female Pastor, and I was blown away. She talked just like Rev. Chris Oyakhilome in boldness and audacity. And, then, we listened to a message [titled The Book of Philippians] by Rev. Chris that answered all my questions about the ministry. It was as though God planned the service for me. What if we had gone to my old church?

Event 4 – “Go on and speak in other tongues”: If you recall, I mentioned in the post titled “He’s Never Too Far Away” that I received the HolyGhost on the night I read “Good Morning, HolySpirit” by Benny Hinn. I also pointed out the fact that I did not know that I had received the HolyGhost till weeks after that experience. Teaching after teaching and meeting after meeting, I realized what happened to me that night. In Christ Embassy, I had learned the importance of speaking in tongues and even spoken in tongues in dreams, but I didn’t know how to get it into physical manifestation. On a particular Sunday, I remember my Pastor leading some people into Christ and laying hands on them to receive the HolySpirit. She asked them to begin to speak in tongues and I thought, “begin?” It was at that point that I realized I needed to take a step of faith; the experience was not going to come with a mighty rushing wind like I thought. As she said, “go on and speak in other tongues”, the HolySpirit stirred up faith in me and I opened my mouth. That ability to speak in tongues has since saved my life and that of family members like in the testimony I previously highlighted; the same ability has promoted me and strengthened my faith. But, what if I did not speak like she said?

After reading this article and the “what ifs” at the end of each event, you may be tempted to think that it was a matter of luck and chance. And, you may think to yourself, “I’ll wait till my time comes”. I’ve got news for you. God has predestined us for his glory, but NOW is the time of that glory. Always, God requires you to take a step of faith on His word. 2 Corinthians 6:2 says “For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

Reading this article could be your event 1. It is all up to you!

Have you had any fortunate events? Care to share?

Peace At Last!!!

Here's a poem I was prompted to write by the HolySpirit. It's dedicated from my heart to all those who have been impacted by natural disasters especially Haitians:


When destruction passes

And the thundering settles

Will there be…peace at last?

Hope restored and faith assured

Peace, peace at last.

Or, will I look in the face of another for…

Peace at last?

Shall I cry out to posterity and humanity for...

Peace, peace at last?

When rationality returns

And still hope is dull

Without father, mother, friend, or foe

Where, the sorrow, shall I lay?

To find…

Peace, peace at last.

Oh! Do I hear a voice?

Does it say “look to Jesus now and live”?

The Only True…

Peace, peace everlasting.

A Series of Fortunate Events…Part 1

“For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].” – Ephesians 2:10 Amplified Version

After I reported my experience with the HolySpirit to my friend [and others], spiritual growth was not automated. Certain occurrences made God more real to me everyday, and only the opening scripture can best describe the divine orchestration that manifested itself as what we now refer to as a series of fortunate events. I now ecstatically present to you four of the incidents that laid a strong foundation for me in the precious third person of the Godhead we fondly refer to as the HolySpirit. I also endeavor to share the specific impact of each episode.

Event 1 – Pastor Chris’ Teaching: In a little over a month before my much anticipated graduation, I had become addicted to a show that completely eclipsed any other interests. With every opportunity, 8PM was my time. As I sat there every weekday listening to the man of God Rev. Chris Oyakhilome on television, my eyes were opened to the reality of the word of God. No longer did I view the bible as an ordinary chronicle or a constitution of laws that had become my war. Rather, its contents had become life to me. With every word from the mouth of the man of God, I fell in love more and more with God. With over a 120 purchased messages and several hours of online/TV broadcasts, that “more” factor still remains. What if I had not gotten interested in that show?

Event 2 – The Stop: Ordinarily as it began, the sunny July day I now describe soon turned out to be one of my most defining days. Being the timid fellow I was, I had always found it hard to stop public buses before a declared stop especially considering the harshness of their drivers. But, on this day, something beyond me prompted me to request an emergency stop right outside Christ Embassy Ajah – Lagos, Nigeria. The initial intention was to purchase my first Pastor Chris’ message; however, within a couple of minutes in the church office, I had experienced much more love and attention than I ever thought possible. The ladies in the church office spoke excitedly about each message they encouraged me to purchase. I knew it was more than marketing – it was for real. That lovely Saturday, I was invited to what would be my first Christ Embassy Sunday service, and I remember replying with a laugh “no…I have a church”. What if I had not stopped the bus?

To be continued…

Feel free to submit your comments and personal stories. God bless you!

HE’S NEVER TOO FAR AWAY…

“And, behold, I send the promise of my father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” [Luke 24:49]

Grew up a Pastor’s son and that helped a lot; but, until you experience God for yourself beyond “what I heard”, nothing has really begun. But, then came a book that revolutionized my walk with God. All the epiphany I needed to begin an experiential walk with God was unveiled through a book I came in contact with titled ‘Good Morning HolySpirit’.

On the day that I now write of, most of my high school confederates had gone home for a holiday - hardly remember what it was about. At this point, my schoolboy fascination with holidays had waned; my interests dwelled more in the control I thought I had over my life while I was in boarding sch
ool. Anyway, back to the day [more like a night it was since, once again, I hardly remember the day part of it] in itself.

I sat there in the large assembly hall all by myself with a book in my hand – one I didn’t want to finish and yet I couldn’t wait to consume entirely. I read, probably for hours, intently. With all my attention focused on that one book, the thought ran through my mind – this just has to be true. With tears in my eyes, a heart pounding in my chest, and my knees knocking together, I read the experiences of the healing minister, Benny Hinn, with the HolyGhost in the earlier parts of his life. He shared the understanding of God’s word, color, beauty, and substance introduced by this precious third person of the Godhead into his life. There was only one True reason why I believed all he wrote, and it was because of the witness. That same HolySpirit now stood there with me, telling me “yes, it is all true…and you too can know me the same way.”

Prior to this day, I had begun nurturing an interest in “something more”. I was never what many considered a bad guy – yet, I wasn’t righteous by their standards either. I had religion – so much of it that I got sick of it. And, by religion, I mean the routine of church, prayer, bible reading, and more of the stuff you may already know. For weeks before the day, I had pondered on the person of the HolySpirit. I took interest in the lives of those who lived the supernatural around me like Rev. Chris Oyakhilome. It may be important to know that, at that time, I had no idea I would ever be in Christ Embassy [presided over by Rev. Chris]. Erstwhile, a couple of alumni of my school had come to our school fellowship and spoken highly about the person, character, and power of the HolyGhost. I knew I had to have it; well, then I thought I was dealing with an “it”. Little did I know!

By the time I was done reading “Good Morning, HolySpirit”, the presence of the HolyGhost had so overwhelmed me. I had come to know that He is more than an “it”. I discovered He’s a rational being co-equal with God. That He is, in fact, the person of the Godhead that brings the Word of God to pass. Though I received the HolySpirit that same night, I did not know it till weeks after this experience. But, one thing was sure that night; I had received life. I didn’t mind telling everyone that I saw. I ran to where a dear friend was doing some laundry to explain my experience, and I am glad till this day that we ran from there together for the HolyGhost! There began my series of fortunate events.

To be continued…

Care to share your first experience with Him?

HAPPY NEW YEAR [OF THE GREATER LIGHT]!!!

"Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established, believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper." [2 Chronicles 20:20]

I never enter a new year till the cloud of the HolySpirit has moved into it. Therefore, with joy did I triumphantly gambol into the year of the Greater Light as soon as the man of God, Rev. Chris Oyakhilome, declared it so [somewhere around 5:58PM EST]. You may wonder how it is possible to enter a new year before 12:01AM; well, the opening quoted scripture says why. Also, because God operates in eternity. Really, God doesn’t enter 2010; we do. As such, it is in my favor (and interest) to enter when He says so.

Christians around the world may have varied tags (for absence of a better word) for the New Year. But, one thing is common to all of us – we all enter it in God! But, for all my fellow citizens of the Believers’ LoveWorld nation, it is the year of the Greater Light. The New Year’s message, as taken from Genesis 1:14-19 and 2 Peter 1:16-19 (amongst other scriptures) by the man of God, revealed God’s mind concerning us. How that God desires for us to live in Zion where there is no night (darkness). Those in darkness (sickness, disease, and discouragement) were encouraged to find their ways back into Zion where it is always Day. And, for those of us who already live in Zion, he encouraged us to remain there (bringing others in) and enjoy greater glory.

Two striking parts of the message for me were:

• In 2010, those who dwell in Zion will not know night.
• When something [negative] happens, say “there’s a greater light!”

Fellow citizens of the BLW nation, please share your favorite words, moments, and prayers as a comment below for all of us to be blessed by. Christians from other ministries, please also share with us the blessings from your New Year’s message; I would love to hear them.

Once again, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

P.S: If the year does not seem new, accept Jesus Christ as Lord of your life; He makes all things new [Rev. 21:5].